South Sudan

On the eve of South Sudan's official declaration of independence, celebrations included children singing the new national anthem. Photo by Sara A. Fajardo/CRS

On the eve of South Sudan's official declaration of independence, celebrations included children singing the new national anthem. Photo by Sara A. Fajardo/CRS

While gaining independence in 2011 was a tremendous victory, South Sudan continues to face significant challenges. Catholic Relief Services is engaged in a wide range of programs, and lends support to government and civil society as the new country emerges from decades of conflict and struggle.

South Sudan remains volatile, facing a great many political and social pressures. CRS helps integrate peacebuilding activities into programs wherever possible and helps strengthen local institutions and church partners.

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Stats

Population:8,260,490 (based on 2008 census)
Size:248,777 sq. mi.; slightly smaller than Texas
People Served:3,230,305

History

With the creation of the world's newest nation in July 2011, Catholic Relief Services South Sudan became a fully autonomous country program. However, the agency's commitment to the people of South Sudan was established through decades of history. CRS was a pioneer member of Operation Lifeline Sudan, a consortium of U.N. agencies and non-governmental organizations providing relief during the second civil war.

After 2005's Comprehensive Peace Agreement formally ended hostilities, CRS opened an office in Juba to better support the growing reconstruction and development programs in southern Sudan. CRS continues to collaborate with the government and others to maintain stability and foster lasting development in South Sudan.

Partners

Various international donors have provided funding for a Conflict Early Warning and Early Response System. This project works in partnership with the South Sudan Peace Commission in the Office of the Presidency to develop a conflict early warning and early response system throughout the country. To date the main states of focus have been Eastern Equatoria, Western Equatoria, Northern Bahr-el Ghazal, and Upper Nile. Expansion to Unity and Jonglei States is in its early stages.

Programs

Agriculture
Education
Disaster Response
Health
Microfinance
Peacebuilding
Water and Sanitation


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